Moving to Florida and need to get your car registered? If you’re a new Florida resident, you have 10 days to register your out-of-state car. This process includes transferring your out-of-state title, providing proof of Florida insurance, and paying the required fees.
Navigating Florida roads starts with having the right documents. Don’t stress; we’ll guide you through it. Keep reading to learn what you need and how to get it done quickly.
Eligibility for Vehicle Registration
To register your out-of-state vehicle in Florida, you need to determine your residency status and gather specific documents. Both steps are crucial to ensure a smooth registration process.
Determining Residency
You are considered a Florida resident if you establish employment, enroll your children in public school, or establish a domicile in the state. Military service members stationed in Florida are also considered residents for vehicle registration purposes.
If you remain in Florida for over 90 days, even in non-consecutive terms, your vehicle must be registered. You must also transfer your driver license to a Florida license to meet residency requirements.
Required Documents
To register your vehicle, gather the following:
- Proof of identity, such as a passport or state-issued ID.
- Proof of Florida insurance, like your insurance card.
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- The out-of-state registration number.
- If the vehicle has a lien, contact the lienholder to transfer the title to Florida.
Preparing the Necessary Documentation
When you need to register your out-of-state car in Florida, you’ll need to gather several important documents. Make sure you have all required paperwork ready to streamline the process.
Gathering Essential Documentation
You will need to collect various documents to register your vehicle successfully in Florida. Start with an application for certificate of title with/without registration. This form is essential as it begins the process of transferring your vehicle’s title from your current state to Florida.
You’ll also need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the current license plate number. A bill of sale might be necessary if you’ve recently bought the vehicle. Ensure you have proof of ID and your registration certificate from your previous state. Don’t forget about the insurance requirements; you must have Florida auto insurance.
Out-of-State Vehicle Requirements
If your car is from out of state, you must meet several specific requirements. A VIN check and official odometer reading are mandatory. You can get these done at a local county tax collector’s office or a licensed inspection station.
Your out-of-state certificate of title should be available. Sometimes, you might need to contact the lienholder if your vehicle has an outstanding lien, to request the title be transferred to Florida. Additionally, you must obtain a Florida driver’s license and Florida auto insurance before completing the registration.
If You Have a Lien on Your Vehicle
Handling a lien on your vehicle adds an extra step. Contact your out-of-state lienholder to ask them to transfer your vehicle’s title to Florida. The lienholder may require some additional documentation.
Even if the lienholder refuses to transfer the title, you still need to register your car in Florida. In this case, make sure you have all other necessary documentation ready. This includes the application for certificate of title, proof of ID, and Florida insurance. An odometer reading and VIN check are still required.
Having all these documents prepared helps ensure the process goes smoothly when registering your out-of-state vehicle in Florida.
Insurance and Inspection
To register a car in Florida from out of state, you need to ensure you have the right auto insurance coverage and complete required inspections like VIN and odometer verification.
Florida Insurance Coverage
Florida law requires you to have specific auto insurance coverage. The minimum coverage includes at least $10,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 Property Damage Liability (PD). PIP covers injuries to you and certain others in a crash, no matter who is at fault. PD covers damage your car does to another person’s property.
Make sure to obtain proof of insurance before heading to the DMV. Your insurance card must show that your policy meets the state’s requirements. If you don’t have this, your registration process will be delayed.
VIN and Odometer Verification
For VIN and odometer verification, you’ll need to submit a completed HSMV 82042 form. This form confirms your vehicle’s VIN number and records its current mileage. Bring your car to an authorized agent, like a Florida DMV office, a licensed car dealer, or a police officer, to complete this verification.
If your car is new or has never been titled outside Florida, inspect the VIN yourself using the HSMV 82042 form. This step ensures that all vehicle information is accurate and up-to-date, streamlining your registration process.
The Registration Process
When registering your out-of-state car in Florida, you’ll need to complete several specific steps. These include submitting the necessary application, paying registration fees, and receiving your new license plates.
Submitting Your Application
To start, you must complete an application for certificate of title. This form transfers your vehicle’s title from your current state to Florida. You’ll need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), your current license plate number, and your out-of-state registration number.
Ensure all your documents are accurate. Any missing or incorrect information can delay the process. Visit your local DMV office. Bring your filled-out form, your driver’s license, proof of Florida insurance, and your current out-of-state title.
It’s important to handle this part carefully. If not completed properly, it could result in fines or delays in your registration.
Paying Registration Fees
Once your application is accepted, you’ll need to pay various registration fees. These fees include an initial registration fee, vehicle registration, and taxes. The initial registration fee for a new vehicle in Florida is $225.
You may also have to pay a sales tax on your vehicle based on its current value and how long you’ve owned it. Double-check the specifics with your local DMV to avoid any surprises. Keep track of these payments by obtaining receipts.
Receiving Your License Plates
After paying the fees, you’ll receive your new Florida license plates. These come with a metal plate and a registration decal. Make sure to affix the validation decal on the plate properly to show your vehicle’s registration is up-to-date.
The DMV will provide temporary license plates if your permanent ones are not ready immediately. Keep your temporary registration document in your car at all times to avoid any issues if you’re pulled over.
Your new plates should arrive within a few weeks. Once you receive them, install them promptly according to Florida state regulations.
After Registration
Once you have registered your car in Florida, there are a few steps to follow to keep everything current. These steps involve understanding your Florida license plates, renewing your registration on time, and keeping up with state regulations.
Understanding Florida License Plates
In Florida, car owners must have valid Florida license plates. You’ll receive a license plate number when you complete your registration at the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Permanent plates are valid for one or two years depending on your registration cycle. The tags display the month and year of expiration.
If you sell your car, you must send a notice of sale to the DHSMV and transfer or return the license plate. Don’t forget to remove the plate before completing the sale.
Renewing Your Registration
To keep your motor vehicle registration current, you must renew it before it expires. Renewals can be done online, by mail, or in person at your local service center.
The renewal notice will come from the tax collector’s office. Renewal fees depend on the type and weight of your vehicle. Make sure you renew on time to avoid penalties and fines.
If your registration has expired, you could face fines or even a suspension of your driving privileges. Renewing in advance helps avoid any last-minute issues.
Keeping Up with Florida Regulations
Florida has specific regulations for motor vehicle use. Make sure to stay informed about these through the Florida DHSMV.
You should maintain proper insurance coverage on your vehicle. If your insurance lapses, your registration may be revoked.
If you change your address, notify the department within 30 days to ensure you receive important mail, such as renewal notices.
Keep your vehicle’s title information updated, especially if you’ve paid off a lien or there has been a name change. This is crucial for the smooth transfer of ownership or other legal processes.
Special Circumstances
When it comes to registering your car in Florida from out of state, certain situations may affect the process. These include being an out-of-state student, military personnel, dealing with a leased vehicle, or moving as a new resident.
Out-of-State Students and Military Personnel
If you’re an out-of-state student studying in Florida, you can temporarily register your vehicle. You will need proof of enrollment at a Florida school and a temporary license plate.
For military personnel, Florida offers special considerations. Active duty members stationed in Florida but maintaining residency in another state can register their vehicles in Florida. You may also apply for specialty license plates such as those that honor veterans.
Registering Leased Vehicles
If you are leasing a vehicle and need to register it in Florida, specific documents are required. Ensure you have your lease agreement, a temporary tag, and a power of attorney from the leasing company.
You will also need to submit an application for a temporary license plate if the vehicle is not yet titled in your name. Be aware of the Florida statutes regarding leased vehicles to avoid any compliance issues.
Transferring a Vehicle as a New Resident
As a new resident, you have 30 days to transfer your vehicle registration to Florida. This process involves submitting proof of insurance, a completed registration application, and proof of identity.
You’ll also need to pay fees for title transfer and obtain a temporary license plate until your permanent one is issued. Visit a local motor vehicle service center to get everything done efficiently.
